Several media outlets claim that Iran fired two missiles at the joint UK-US base on Diego Garcia island, more than 3,800 km away, but one was intercepted and the other fell en route.
Multiple international news agencies, including The Wall Street Journal and BBC, reported citing multiple sources that Iran launched two missiles targeting the joint US-UK military base on Diego Garcia island in the Indian Ocean but failed in their attempt.
The base serves as a key airfield for the US heavy bomber fleet in the Indian Ocean and is approximately 3,814 km (2,370 miles) from Iran's coastline.
It is understood that the attack occurred before the UK decided last Friday (20 Mar) to permit US forces to use British bases to conduct strikes against targets in Iran near the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route carrying about one-fifth of the world's oil.
The Wall Street Journal cited officials saying one missile aimed at Diego Garcia was intercepted by a US warship, while the other experienced a malfunction during flight.
Previously, the UK government had restricted US use of its bases to strike only missile launch sites targeting British interests in the region before later agreeing to broaden this authorization.
However, the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has not confirmed or denied reports of the two Iranian missile launches. In a statement released early Saturday morning (21 Mar), it said:
“Iran’s reckless attacks, the severe regional retaliation, and the seizure of the Strait of Hormuz as a hostage situation represent threats to UK interests and allies.”
“The Royal Air Force jets and other UK military assets continue to protect our personnel and citizens in the region. This government has authorized the US to use UK bases for specific and limited self-defense operations.”
The reports that Iran launched missiles at Diego Garcia shocked many, since Iran is believed to have a maximum missile range of about 2,000 km (1,243 miles), while the Alma research center estimates Iran’s Khorramshahr missile could reach up to 3,000 km.
Nevertheless, BBC defense correspondent Jonathan Bell stated that the fact Iran fired two unspecified missiles toward an Indian Ocean base does not necessarily mean the missiles would reach their intended targets.
.bbc